Subscribe to our daily newsletter

While most sports are struggling to come to terms with the Beast from the East’s wintry influence, one activity is positively thriving in the sub-zero temperatures.

The clue is in the name: ice climbing involves ascending ice formations, with breathtaking frozen waterfalls often providing the surface.

(Peter Byrne/PA)

“Of course it is a seasonal sport, so every year we see a big uptake in the winter, but you get exceptional conditions like this and everybody gets excited,” said Mark Warner, an instructor, experienced ice climber and assistant manager at the Ice Factor in Kinlochleven, Scotland.

“We’re seeing waterfalls and climbs in England that very rarely come into condition because it rarely gets cold enough,” he continued. “People get excited to try them because they might only get the chance every 10 years or so.”

(Peter Byrne/PA)

“If you were to go out yourself and try and go ice climbing, it would be very dangerous,” said Mark. “But with the right training, experience and instructions when you’re starting out, no.

“You build up a base of experience by starting on easier climbs, progressing within your comfort zone.

Advertising

“The main differences are that in rock climbing you’re using your hands and feet directly on the rock, whereas in ice climbing you have ice axes in your hand, which obviously swing into the ice and you use to climb up, and you have crampons on your feet.”

(Peter Byrne/PA)

But he also warned that proper precautions must be taken before ascending.

“You need to make sure it’s properly attached and properly frozen,” he said. “If you climb on frozen waterfalls too early, where they’ve basically started to freeze but they’re not fully formed and attached, that can be very dangerous because the ice can collapse.

Advertising

“Once they’re properly solid and fully frozen, obviously there’s an element of danger, but they can be fairly secure.”

(Peter Byrne/PA)

But for those who are already experts, it sounds as though the perks of the job are quite spectacular.

“In terms of the UK, most of the ice climbs are fairly high up the mountains, so you’re getting a chance to experience an environment that very few other people will get to experience,” said Mark.

“It takes you to some of the most stunning and beautiful parts of the country.”